TAVI: A Revolutionary Treatment Offering New Life to Patients with Aortic Stenosis
As people age, the aortic valve of the heart can gradually become narrow or hardened—a serious condition known as Aortic Stenosis. When this happens, the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, extreme fatigue, dizziness, or even fainting spells. If left untreated, aortic stenosis can become life-threatening.
For many years, open-heart surgery was the only effective treatment option. However, for elderly patients or those with multiple medical conditions, major surgery often carried significant risks. Today, medical science has introduced a safer and less invasive alternative—TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation).
What Is TAVI?
According to renowned interventional cardiologist Dr. Priyam Mukherjee,
“TAVI is a procedure where the diseased aortic valve is replaced through a catheter, without making large surgical incisions. It is especially beneficial for elderly and high-risk patients.”
How Does the TAVI Procedure Work?
In TAVI, a new artificial valve is delivered to the heart using a thin tube (catheter), usually inserted through a blood vessel in the leg (femoral artery). The new valve is placed precisely over the damaged valve, restoring normal blood flow.
In most cases, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, avoiding the risks of general anesthesia and open surgery.
Who Is TAVI Suitable For?
TAVI is recommended for:
- Patients diagnosed with Aortic Stenosis
- Elderly individuals at high risk for open-heart surgery
- Patients with multiple health conditions (comorbidities)
- Individuals with a previously replaced valve that has failed
Dr. Mukherjee emphasizes,
“TAVI is a life-saving technology. Most patients recover quickly, return home in a short time, and resume normal activities. This is truly the future of heart treatment.”
A New Era in Heart Care
With TAVI, the heart can now be treated through a small incision—without open-heart surgery. For many patients, it has meant a second chance at life, improved quality of living, and renewed hope.